Book Review: Fragile Sanctuary by Catherine Cowles

Fragile Sanctuary was a phenomenal story that hooked me right from the start. I loved the characters, the mystery, and the found family. Add in the fact that there was a grumpy hero and I was all about it! If you haven't read Catherine Cowles before, I highly recommend her.

Fragile Sanctuary (Sparrow Falls #1) by Catherine Cowles

The scowl should’ve been my first clue to stay far away from Anson Hunt. The sexy smirk and the fact that he’s my brother’s best friend? Reasons two and three. Not to mention, he’s the new contractor working on my house.

He’s everything I’m not: grumpy, rude, and more than a little attached to his solitude. It doesn’t matter how many times I try to kill him with kindness; the man simply won’t crack.

Until he sees me shatter.

Because when my world comes crashing down around me, Anson is the one catching me as I fall. And as so-called accidents start plaguing every part of my life, it’s Anson who steps in to keep me safe.

As he does, I can’t help but feel a flicker of heat. And it only takes a single moment for that spark to ignite into flames, engulfing us both.

But Anson’s a man with secrets, and they have a price. When they’re revealed, neither of us will make it out unscathed…

5 out of 5 stars

Fragile Sanctuary was simply amazing! I loved every second as Anson and Rhodes got to know one another and as the suspense element really built, pulling me in. I loved the development, the found family, and the intensity as it all played out. It was heartbreaking, raw, real, and filled with emotion and love. This story was the definition of a page-turner!

Rhodes and Anson were excellent characters, broken and real, working through grief in their own way. I loved their guards coming down, them opening up, and being vulnerable. There were just so many standout moments and scenes between them. I loved Rhodes, she was a delight! She was a bright light with a heart of gold, I loved her positive outlook and strength and I felt so much for her and what had happened in her life. I really liked Anson and his grumpy attitude intrigued me and I couldn’t wait to find out what made him tick. I loved his layers being peeled back as his secrets were revealed, his hard shell crumbling and him letting Rho in. It was gut-wrenching and emotional.

I loved how the suspense element was mixed in as Rho and Anson’s relationship developed, it was exciting. I liked the small hints that were revealed along the way, I was sucked me in as it really built, and then bam! I was holding my breath! I was trying to piece things together and couldn't wait for answers. It was incredibly well done!

I loved the cast of characters introduced, and the found family that has bonded together with unique individuals. I loved Grandma Lolli and her crazy quips, the mom Nora, and all the siblings. This was a fantastic series starter I'm looking forward to what's to come. I loved meeting Shep and Thea and am already counting the days for their story. I have so many questions about Thea and can't wait for answers.

This was a well-crafted and detailed story with an incredible build. There was exceptional drama, as well as great banter and a lot of fun, sweet moments that added some much needed levity. There's a loveable dog and some adorable kittens too. Catherine Cowles is officially one of my favorite authors. Excellent read!